The Colombian government wants to double the size of the Chiribiquete national park in southeastern Colombia to 11,580 square miles.
The park, located in the Amazonas department, is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the country, such as approximately 300 species of birds and 300 butterfly species.
“Chiribiquete already protects an enormous wealth of flora and fauna, but its enlargement now also will facilitate the protection of voluntarily isolated indigenous peoples that are believed to inhabit the park and help ensure their right to remain uncontacted,” said Liliana Madrigal, a member of the Amazon Conservation Team.
According to ourAmazingplanet.com, the Colombian Ministry of Environment is currently negotiating with the Ministry of Mines to reach a deal on plans for oil exploration in the area destined to be part of the enlarged national park.
